Naturalization & US Citizenship

Who is eligible

Nearly all applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of filing and be a lawful permanent resident. Beyond that, the main routes are:

• Five-year rule (baseline): five years as a permanent resident, with continuous residence over that period and at least 30 months of physical presence in the United States.
• Three-year rule (spouse of a US citizen): three years as a permanent resident while married to and living with the same US citizen spouse, with at least 18 months of physical presence.
• Both routes also require living for at least three months in the state or USCIS district where you apply.
• Special provisions exist for current and former members of the US armed forces and their families, which can shorten or change these requirements.

When to file (the 90-day rule)

You do not have to wait until your full waiting period ends. You may file Form N-400 up to 90 calendar days before you complete the five-year (or three-year) continuous-residence requirement. Filing earlier than that window can lead to a denial, so use the USCIS early-filing calculator to check your earliest date.

Good moral character and continuous residence

You must show good moral character during the relevant period (generally the five or three years before filing) and up to the time you take the Oath. USCIS looks at your whole record, including any criminal history, tax filings, and honesty on the application.

Long trips abroad can break the continuous-residence requirement. As a general guide, absences of six months or more can raise questions, and longer absences can reset the clock. If you spend extended time outside the US, review the rules carefully before you file.

The English and civics test

At the naturalization interview, most applicants must demonstrate basic English (reading, writing, and speaking) and pass a civics test on US history and government. The test format and question bank are set by USCIS and have been revised over time, so which version applies can depend on when you file.

There are exemptions and accommodations. Older applicants who have held a green card for many years may take the civics test in their own language and/or be exempt from the English requirement, and medical disability waivers (Form N-648) are available in some cases. Check the current test rules and study materials on the official USCIS citizenship resource pages.

Fees, the application steps, and the Oath

The N-400 filing fee is a baseline of $760 by paper or $710 filed online (fees effective 1 April 2024). Fees change, and fee reductions or waivers may be available for those who qualify, so confirm the current amount and any biometrics cost on the USCIS N-400 page before paying.

After filing you will typically attend a biometrics appointment, then an interview where an officer reviews your application and administers the tests. If approved, the final step is taking the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony, after which you receive your Certificate of Naturalization and are a US citizen.